Shannon, the team’s leading tackler two seasons ago, has played sparingly this season after sitting out 2014 due to a Title IX sexual misconduct suspension.

Jordan Evans, OU’s second-leading tackler, was hurt last week against Kansas State. Stoops and head coach Bob Stoops have not said whether Evans will be available.

"He’s not 100 percent," Mike Stoops told the Oklahoman of Evans. "He’s still having some problems getting some lift from his leg."

Shannon’s last start was the 2014 Sugar Bowl vs. Alabama.

"Now that he’s taking first-team reps his focus has been much better," Stoops told The Oklahoman. "You can see that he’s zeroed in. If he has to go, we feel very confident in his ability."

Linebacker Devante Bond, who has missed the past two games with an injury will likely play Saturday. The same goes for defensive lineman Matt Romar, who missed the game against Kansas State with a toe injury. Both practiced Tuesday.